Team USA stifles D.R.'s offense to make WBC final
- Team USA clinched a 2‑1 victory, aided by closer Mason Miller’s strikeout, to to the WBC final.
- Dominican Republic rallied to tie the game, but a disputed low‑zone strike by umpire Cory Blaser ended their comeback.
- Albert Pujols, managing the DR, praised his squad’s effort while downplaying the controversial call.
- Automated Ball‑Strike (ABS) was unavailable, prompting debate; MLB officials note some venues lack the tech, and DeRosa expects it next tournament.
- DeRosa highlighted the “high‑level baseball” of the semifinal and will start Mets prospect Nolan McLean in the championship.
Team USA edged the Dominican Republic 2‑1 in the World Baseball Classic semifinal, silencing a controversial low‑zone strike call and booking a spot in the final against Italy or Venezuela. The win showcased the U.S.'s deep talent pool while underscoring the impact of the missing automated ball‑strike system that could have changed the outcome.
